In recent years, the popularity of plant-based diets has skyrocketed. Whether you are a vegan, vegetarian or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, the benefits are undeniable. Not only does a plant-based diet help reduce your carbon footprint and decrease animal suffering, but it can also improve your overall health.
One of the most common misconceptions about plant-based diets is that they are boring and lack variety. However, there are a plethora of amazing vegan recipes that are both delicious and nutritious. Here are just a few of our favorites.
1. Vegan Buddha Bowl
Buddha bowls have become a staple meal in many households due to their simplicity and versatility. Not only are they nutrient-dense, but they are also incredibly satisfying. This vegan Buddha bowl combines sweet potatoes, kale, chickpeas, and quinoa for a meal that is both filling and nutritious.
Ingredients:
1 sweet potato, cut into cubes
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper
1 cup cooked quinoa
1 cup chickpeas
2 cups kale, chopped
2 tbsp tahini
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 garlic clove, minced
Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F.
2. Toss the sweet potato cubes in the olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Roast the sweet potatoes for 20-25 minutes or until they are tender and crispy.
4. While the sweet potatoes are cooking, prepare the other ingredients.
5. In a bowl, mix together the tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and water until you reach your desired consistency.
6. In a pan, cook the chickpeas over medium heat until they are golden brown and slightly crispy.
7. In the same pan, add the kale and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until the kale is wilted.
8. To assemble the Buddha bowl, start with a base of quinoa and add the roasted sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and kale.
9. Drizzle the tahini dressing over the top of the bowl and enjoy!
2. Vegan Lentil Soup
Soup is the ultimate comfort food, and this vegan lentil soup is no exception. Lentils are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, making this soup both filling and nutritious. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
4 carrots, chopped
4 celery stalks, chopped
1 cup lentils
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper
2 cups spinach
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and sauté for 5 minutes or until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the garlic, carrots, and celery and sauté for another 5 minutes.
4. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the pot.
5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Stir in the spinach and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the spinach is wilted.
7. Serve the soup hot and enjoy!
3. Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff
Who doesn’t love pasta? This vegan mushroom stroganoff is rich and creamy, and the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in. Plus, it’s so easy to make, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making this recipe for years.
Ingredients:
8 oz pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
16 oz mushrooms, sliced
1 cup vegetable broth
1 cup cashew cream
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
3. Add the onion and sauté for 5 minutes or until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the garlic and mushrooms and sauté for another 5 minutes or until the mushrooms are golden brown.
5. Add the vegetable broth, cashew cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to the pan.
6. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
7. Drain the pasta and add it to the sauce.
8. Toss the pasta in the sauce and top with fresh parsley.
9. Serve the mushroom stroganoff hot and enjoy!
4. Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies
Who says you can’t have dessert on a plant-based diet? These vegan chocolate chip cookies are chewy, gooey, and seriously addictive. Plus, they are super easy to make and perfect for a sweet treat after dinner.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup almond milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup vegan chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the melted coconut oil, brown sugar, granulated sugar, almond milk, and vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Fold in the vegan chocolate chips.
6. Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
8. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Enjoy your vegan chocolate chip cookies with a glass of almond milk for the ultimate vegan treat!
Conclusion
Going plant-based doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor or variety. These amazing vegan recipes are not only delicious, but they are also packed with nutrients and perfect for incorporating into your plant-based lifestyle. So, whether you are a seasoned vegan or simply looking to try out some new recipes, give these plant-based meals a try and get your fix today!